In today’s drafting/computer aided design programs, students are learning to plan and prepare mechanical, architectural, structural, civil, electronic, topographical, and other drawings.
As technologies and techniques rapidly evolve with changes in these industries, it’s important to think about how your program will accommodate these changes.
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Rethink the layout of your classroom / lab
Optimizing your lab to fit the daily needs of your students ultimately depends on whether your program focuses on manual drafting and Computer Aided Design & Drafting (CADD) or CADD only.
If your focus is on both, you’ll want to have desks with a flip-up surface for manual drafting as well as a computer section for computer design. These types of work stations are typically larger than others so it’s important to consider two key factors: How many students will you teach per class? How many workstations can you feasibly fit in your lab?
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If your program focuses on computer drafting only, your workstations will likely be a bit smaller. However, it’s still important to ask yourself if students should only have room for a computer at their desks or should also have a little work space next to their computers.
Also, consider space saving furniture. There are options available that can hide a computer monitor inside a table/desk, which can flip or rise up when ready for use. This is a great option for teachers who share their lab with other instructors / classes that don’t require computer usage.
Rethink your CAD software
There are a quite a few software programs on the market that are advertised as “free” but may not actually be after you examine the fine print.
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Before you invest, be sure to know everything there is to know about the capabilities, support and training, and industry certifications available through the software. Also, find out when your “free” contract will expire so you know what kind of costs you will be looking at in the future.
We’ve outlined all the things you need to know about CAD software here.
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Rethink the tools and tech you offer students
It’s one thing for students to see their designs on a computer screen and an entirely different thing for students to hold their designs in their hands. That’s why 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines are increasing in popularity in CTE CADD programs.
Whether your program teaches the design principles of architecture, manufacturing, or product design, the ability to prototype your design is a natural fit for a CADD class.
Learn more about how to rethink your CADD Program in our CTE: Guide to Computer Aided Design & Drafting (CADD).
